This comes as Government is in the process of finalising a Computer Crime and Cyber Crime Bill.
Speaking at the signing of the Exchange of Notes for the procurement of cyber-security equipment, Finance and Economic Development Minister, Mthuli Ncube said the project adds to the list of projects funded by Japan and will effectively contribute to the implementation of national priorities and development thrust enshrined in the Transitional Stabilisation Programme (TSP).
Ambassador of Japan to Zimbabwe, Toshiyuki Iwado said the grant aid will contribute towards improving the safety of Zimbabwe and the Southern African region through the provision of cybersecurity equipment.
With 95% of payments in the country now being made through mobile and electronic means, a rapid increase in card fraud is unfortunately anticipated, he added.
The support provides for the procurement of equipment for enhancing the ability to counter terrorism and public security, material for operation and maintenance of equipment, services necessary for the procurement and transportation of the product and training.
In February this year, cybersecurity firm McAfee said the global cost of cybercrime has now reached as much as $600 billion — about 0.8 percent of global Growth Domestic Product.
